Leeds United’s training camp in Germany is due to end on Monday afternoon and Daniel Farke’s men have only one more friendly before the 2024-25 season starts against Portsmouth.
Farke has so far trialed new systems, youth and signings against Harrogate Town, Hannover 96 and Schalke, which have all ended in wins. But what is his best starting XI, all things this summer considered?
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Farke tested a back three in the win over Harrogate but it seemed that like last season, the usage of a back three was simply a back-up plan. His 4-2-3-1 has since been deployed in both German friendlies.
Goalkeeper – Illan Meslier
There is no doubt that the Frenchman gets the nod over Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns. New signing Cairns has not been used and while Meslier conceded the only goal in the three, he has made some super saves.
Right-back – Jayden Bogle
While Sam Byram has impressed after starting against Hannover, new signing Bogle gets the nod mostly because has two assists in two games vs Hannover and Schalke – already doing what he was signed for.
Centre-back – Joe Rodon
The Welshman remains a commanding presence at the back and has started all three friendlies. One of the first names on the team sheet, there is no doubt the £10m summer signing will start on August 10.
Centre-back – Max Wober
A tricky one. It comes down to Wober and Pascal Struijk, both making errors. It was Struijk who cost the only goal conceded while Wober jumping out of the line almost saw Schalke score. Wober may edge it.
Left-back – Junior Firpo
Even if Firpo had struggled, he’d start. His form last season, combined with being the only senior option at left-back seems him start. Leeds have chosen to keep Firpo back from The Olympics because of that.
Central midfield – Ethan Ampadu
If captain Ampadu is not starting in defence, he will almost certainly be starting in the midfield. A leader, his experience will be key going into Portsmouth. Like Rodon, is one of the first names on the team sheet.
Central midfield – Joe Rothwell
With Ampadu likely to be the one sitting deeper, Leeds need a more attacking option. Ilia Gruev scored vs Hannover, but Rothwell is more natural and adds set-piece quality. Rothwell has impressed Tony Dorigo.
Right-wing – Wilfried Gnonto
Gnonto made things happen against Schalke and with Everton signing Jasper Lindstrom, Gnonto looks set to stay. Dan James’ recent injury means he will be behind scheduled when Leeds take on Portsmouth.
Attacking midfield – Georginio Rutter
Some moments of genius from the Frenchman came against Hannover and Schalke, including assists for both of Joel Piroe’s goals in Germany. Like Meslier, Rodon and Ampadu, a no-brainer to start Rutter.
Left-wing – Brenden Aaronson
Harrogate came too soon after Copa America, but he’s started both games in Germany. Bryn Law noticed Aaronson’s physicality vs Schalke and if Crysencio Summerville remains injured or leaves, he starts.
Striker – Mateo Joseph
Of all 27 players that went to Germany, Joseph is the winner of the trip. Three goals in two games, the Spaniard has been on fire and having started over Piroe vs Schalke, he is set to get the nod in a fortnight.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
